Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland Tours

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland which includes mist or fog and a hot spring as well as a small group of people
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland featuring a lake or waterhole
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland featuring a hot spring and views as well as a small group of people


Just a short drive from the busy city is one of the most fascinating areas of geothermal activity in New Zealand.

Cross boardwalks above gently simmering water and see pools of hot bubbling mud at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland. Peer into dark craters and watch as a geyser shoots water up to 20 metres (65 feet) into the sky.

Set off on one of the three well-signposted tracks around the park. Depending on which path you choose, the journey will take between 30 and 75 minutes to complete. A walk through this surreal, lunar-like environment provides the chance to witness some of the volcanic wonders that this region is famous for.

Look for the luminous green waters of the ominously named Devil’s Bath. The pretty trees and shrubs surrounding it make this unusually coloured pool appear even more peculiar. Carry on past the Champagne Pool, a bubbling hot spring famed for its brilliant orange rim, to a low boardwalk crossing a vast lake of steaming, cream-coloured liquid.

Back on firm ground, admire the Primrose Terraces, a set of glistening steps. Elsewhere, pools of thick boiling mud rise and fall gently while collapsed craters add to the post-apocalyptic feel of the region.

Don’t miss Lady Knox Geyser, just a 3-minute drive from the main park. Come around mid-morning and marvel as scalding water sprays into the air with amazing force. Ask for directions at the visitor centre and arrive early to get your seat in the natural amphitheatre.

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is about 30 kilometres (19 miles) south of Rotorua. The attraction is open daily and has an admission fee. The visitor centre by the entrance has a café and gift shop. Wear trainers or hiking boots as the terrain here is rugged and rocky.

Reviews of Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

4.5
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
47
5 - Excellent 60%
4 - Good
24
4 - Good 31%
3 - Okay
5
3 - Okay 6%
2 - Disappointing
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2 - Disappointing 3%
1 - Terrible
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1 - Terrible 0%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

There is a great mud pool just outside the wonderland... My kids liked this the best

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

Wai-o-tapu is about 20 min from jet park hotel. Plenty of parking space. Takes about an hour to 90 min. It was a great tour - pretty cool. Highly recommend when in Rotorua.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

The geyser is disappointing...they make it happen. The rest of the exhibit is awesome

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Rydges Rotorua

Rydges Rotorua

4.5 out of 5
10 Tryon Street, Whakarewarewa, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
Rydges Rotorua
Marsden Stay Rotorua

Marsden Stay Rotorua

3 out of 5
273 Fenton St, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
Marsden Stay Rotorua
Millennium Hotel Rotorua

Millennium Hotel Rotorua

4.5 out of 5
1270 Hinemaru Street, Rotorua
Millennium Hotel Rotorua
Prince's Gate Hotel

Prince's Gate Hotel

4.5 out of 5
1057 Arawa Street, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
Prince's Gate Hotel
Arawa Park Hotel

Arawa Park Hotel

4 out of 5
272 Fenton St, Rotorua
Arawa Park Hotel
Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park

Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park

3 out of 5
463 Old Taupo Road (South End), Rotorua
Rotorua Thermal Holiday Park
Copthorne Hotel Rotorua

Copthorne Hotel Rotorua

4 out of 5
328-348 Fenton Street, Rotorua
Copthorne Hotel Rotorua
Regal Palms Resort

Regal Palms Resort

5 out of 5
350 Fenton Street, Rotorua
Regal Palms Resort
Imperial Hotel Rotorua

Imperial Hotel Rotorua

4 out of 5
7 Tryon St, Rotorua, Bay of Plenty
Imperial Hotel Rotorua
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland offers a unique blend of activities for visitors. Couples can enjoy romantic strolls through the vibrant geothermal landscapes, while adventure seekers can explore the stunning natural features. Relax in the soothing mineral pools, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Although shopping options are limited, the nearby attractions provide a perfect backdrop for memorable experiences in this captivating destination.

Shopping

At Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, you can enjoy local shopping experiences. For a bit of a drive, visit Eat Street and Rotorua Central Mall, both offering vibrant atmospheres with shops and eateries. Don't miss the Rotorua Night Market for unique gifts and souvenirs in a lively setting.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant energy at Rotorua International Stadium, a premier sports venue offering various events. For a more relaxed atmosphere, visit Springfield Golf Club or Rotorua Golf Club, both set amidst beautiful landscapes perfect for outdoor leisure and golfing enthusiasts.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views at Skyline Rotorua, located 18 miles from Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, with its thrilling cable car rides. Enjoy family fun at Taupō Hot Springs, 29 miles away, featuring exciting water activities. For adventure seekers, DriftKartz, 17 miles away, offers exhilarating go-kart racing experiences.

Nightlife

While staying near Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, check out Luge Rotorua for a thrilling ride, or head to Mind Junction for an arcade adventure. For a cultural evening, the Tribal Lights Cultural Theatre offers a blend of entertainment and romance, perfect for families.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland offers a unique blend of natural attractions, including stunning lakes, hot springs, and lush forests. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, visitors can enjoy scenic views and a relaxing beach atmosphere. Explore geothermal attractions and popular points of interest within and around the thermal wonderland for an unforgettable experience. Don't miss nearby attractions that enhance your adventure in this captivating region of New Zealand.

  • Waikite Valley Thermal Pools: Experience ultimate relaxation at these natural hot springs, known for their soothing mineral-rich waters. Situated 4 miles from Wai-O-Tapu, enjoy wellness treatments and unwind in a serene outdoor setting surrounded by stunning landscapes.
  • Waimangu Volcanic Valley: Embark on an adventurous journey through this geothermal wonderland, located 4 miles away. Explore unique volcanic features, vibrant flora, and the incredible hot springs while taking in breathtaking views of the valley.
  • Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest: Just 13 miles from Wai-O-Tapu, this majestic forest offers thrilling outdoor adventures. Hike or bike through towering redwoods and lush trails, immersing yourself in nature's beauty while feeling the excitement of the great outdoors.

Best time to go to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

The best time to visit Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland falls in January and February. February has slightly high visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature around Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February63.5°F (17.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
March60.1°F (15.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April56.1°F (13.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
May51.4°F (10.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
June47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
July45.9°F (7.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August46.9°F (8.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
September49.3°F (9.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
October52.7°F (11.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December61.0°F (16.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland

To save money on your trip to Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, consider visiting in May or during August to September when prices are lower. Book your accommodations about a month in advance, ideally for a Tuesday stay for the best rates. Use Expedia to filter hotel options by price and combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership provides exclusive discounts and the chance to earn OneKeyCash for future bookings. Look out for last-minute deals and refine your search based on your budget for the best hotel deals.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland are May and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel around Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.